PRESIDENT BUSH: Thank you. Thanks for coming. Secretary Nicholson, thank
you for your kind words and for your leadership. Members of the Cabinet,
Members of Congress, members of the United State military, all veterans,
all volunteers who have sworn to uphold the security of the United States,
I thank your families for being here and I thank our veterans. I am proud
to join you on this day of honor.

On this day, in this month, at this hour, our nation remembers the moment
when the guns of World War I went silent -- and we recognize the service
and the sacrifice of our nation's veterans. From Valley Forge to Vietnam,
from Kuwait to Kandahar, from Berlin to Baghdad, our veterans have borne
the costs of America's wars -- and they have stood watch over America's
peace. The American people are grateful to the veterans and all who have
fought for our freedom.

Since the presidency of Abraham Lincoln, the National Cemetery has reminded
our citizens of the cost of liberty. The simple white markers testify to
honor fulfilled and duty served. Most of these markers stand over graves
of Americans who came home to enjoy the peace they earned. Too many stand
over the graves of those who gave their lives to protect that peace. This
day is dedicated to all who answered the call to service -- whether they
live in honor among us, or sleep in valor beneath this sacred ground.

On this Veterans Day, we give thanks for the 24 million Americans who
strengthen our nation with their example of service and sacrifice. Our
veterans are drawn from many generations and from many backgrounds. Some
charged across great battlefields. Some fought on the high seas. Some
patrolled the open skies. And all contributed to the character and to the
greatness of America.

On this Veterans Day, we honor a new generation of men and women who are
defending our freedom. Since September the 11th, 2001, our Armed Forces
have engaged the enemy, the terrorists on many fronts. At this moment,
more than 1.4 million Americans are on active duty, serving in the cause of
freedom and peace around the world. They are our nation's finest citizens.
(Applause.) They confront grave danger to defend the safety of the
American people. They've brought down tyrants, they've liberated two
nations, they have helped bring freedom to more than 50 million people.
Through their sacrifice, they're making this nation safer and more secure
-- and they are earning the proud title of veteran. (Applause.)

On this Veterans Day, we're humbled by the strong hearts of those who have
served. Last week, Secretary Nicholson told me about a visit he made to
New York City where he met a group of veterans who lost limbs in this war.
Secretary Nicholson asked them how they could keep their spirits up. One
man answered, "Sir, it is because we feel the American people are so
appreciative of our service." Many of our veterans bear the scars of their
service to our country - and we are a nation that will keep its commitments
to those who have risked their lives for our freedom. That young man was
right -- we do appreciate the service of those who wear our uniform.
(Applause.)

To help Americans show our appreciation to those who have served, Secretary
Nicholson has asked all our nation's veterans to wear their medals today.
I urge our citizens to go up to those men and women and shake a hand and
give a hug, and give a word of thanks. I ask you to consider volunteering
at a veterans hospital or a nursing home. I encourage you to work with
your local veterans group to help support our troops in the field -- and
their families here at home.

As we raise our flag and as the bugle sounds taps, we remember that the men
and women of America's Armed Forces serve a great cause. They follow in a
great tradition, handed down to them by America's veterans. And in public
ceremonies and in private prayer, we give thanks for the freedom we enjoy
because of their willingness to serve. (Applause.)

I thank you for honoring those who serve today, and for honoring those who
have set such a sterling example -- our nation's veterans. May God bless
our veterans, may God bless all who wear the uniform, and may God continue
to bless the United States of America. (Applause.)